South Adelaide's Reserves enjoyed a three-goal win over Sturt at Hickinbotham Oval on Sunday afternoon.

The win keeps the Panthers finals aspirations alive as they trail fifth-placed Central District by just one game with two games to play.

South were made to work for the points in a tightly contested affair in which the lead didn't exceed two goals either way through the first three quarters.

However, some steely resolve and a fast finish in the final term was enough to secure an important 12.9 (81) to 9.9 (63) win.

Sturt took a 10-point lead into the major break, but South were able to claw back the lead and entered the final change with a lead of their own thanks to returning forward Sam Overall's second goal of the afternoon.

South had to fight off a Double Blue charge, as the visitors close within five midway through the last, but were able to pile on the last three goals of the game to secure the points.

Anthony Biemans (22 touches and two goals) was outstanding in his return from a shoulder injury.

The former Magpie was immense around the contest, laying an impressive 15 tackles and leading the way in several team KPIs.

Speedy Connor Fairlie continued to accumulate the ball at Reserves level, finishing with 32 touches and two goals, while Tarak Redigolo's veteran presence (26 possessions and nine marks) in defence also played a key factor in the win.

Meanwhile, young defender Robert Irra (19 touches) played one of his better games as he continues to improve on the attacking side of his game and Matt Rankine responded well to being sent back to the Reserves with 20 touches and seven tackles.

The Reserves next face Eagles at Maughan Thiem Hyundia Oval this Saturday, August 18 from 11.30am.